March: monthly favorites

March has come in like a lamb and out like a lion. I know it’s supposed to be the other way around, but this weather is really bizarre. I hope April fares better. I’m busy thinking about what to plant in our community garden. This year we are able to use a full plot, instead of a half plot. I’m so excited to think about the veggies and herbs we can grow with twice as much space! This happens every year – remember when we first got into the garden? My excitement temporarily waned when I discovered our plot was overgrown with stinging nettles. This year I’m determined to keep them under control.

We had plenty of family time this month with visits out of town and visitors coming to see us here in Boston. We used this opportunity to have a bit of a staycation and explored some parts of Boston that we hadn’t ever been to, or just hadn’t visited in a long time. For this months favorites list, I leave you with suggestions for a trip to Boston, or some staycation activities if you’re a local.

There used to be nearly 27 breweries in Boston. Prohibition took it’s toll and that number dwindled to naughty. Luckily, that time has long passed and local and craft brewers have sprouted up all over again. The Sam Adams tour is a good way to learn about the brewing process, sample some new drafts, and learn about the top craft brewery in the country.

After the tour, take the free shuttle bus to Doyle’s Cafe. This is one of the oldest bars in Boston. If you show them your Sam Adams tour ticket, you’ll get a special glass to take home with you. They also have possibly the best onion rings I have ever tasted. I’m not sure how they do it, but they amaze me every time. The pizza is surprisingly good for a bar, and the standard bar menu doesn’t disappoint.

Another institution that is worth a visit? Jacob Wirth Restaurant. This is a great place to go with friends and family of all ages. There is live music on weekend nights, and patrons boisterously sing along. The food is satisfying and the beer list is long and changes regularly. Some unusual options can be found here.

The Museum of Science is an overlooked destination for those without children. I was pleasantly surprised at how much I learned and how diverse the displays were. It really catered to a variety of ages and interests. We saw a Gecko exhibit, a lightening show, and many other exhibits (like this diorama). We probably would have stayed longer if they weren’t closing.

The other great thing about the Boston Staycation? The Boston Public Library provides tickets to many local museums and tourist destinations free of charge to Boston Public Library card holders. Plan ahead and reserve your tickets well in advance, and you can have an educational and inexpensive adventure. Here’s were to find more information on the BPL Museum Pass Program.

And of course, a visit to Boston would not be complete without some ice cream! Massachusettsans love their ice cream and Boston has a number of outstanding choices to satisfy that lick (pun intended!). J.P. Licks is my personal favorite. They have many locations to choose from, although sadly, the Newbury Street branch just closed. Christina’s Homemade Ice Cream and Toscani’s in Cambridge are also good choices. The supermarket has an extra large selection of ice cream as well. Local brands like Batch are to ice cream what craft brews are to beer. Maybe we should combine the two and make a beer float?

Where are some of your favorite places to visit in Boston? How do you like to spend your staycation?